Small dog breeds take up little space. Many of these small dogs are classified as toy breeds whose main purpose is to stay cute and cuddly for everyone to admire. But more than that, these pint-sized breeds are highly sought after because of their amazing personalities.
Despite their small stature, these 9 miniature dog breeds are big on personality and companionship.
9. French Bulldog
French bulldogs are born entertainers. Their amusing antics never fail to make people laugh. As pets, they are affectionate, friendly, and playful. Frenchies are natural couch potato dogs that require minimal exercise. Although they’re eager to please their humans, they can have a stubborn streak—nothing a proper training couldn’t fix. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living.
Not only are they suitable for families with children, but they are also great companion dogs for first-time owners.
8. Shih Tzu
For hundreds of years, Shih Tzus lived the life of royal lapdogs. The breed is believed to be bred from the Pekingese and the Lhaso Apso. These pampered pooches were kept inside the palace walls and practically unknown by the outside world until the 1930s.
Shih Tzus enjoy the attention of humans and they love to be held. They will happily greet you and your visitors to play the role of a good hostess. They are naturally curious, loyal and friendly with a laidback personality.
Shih Tzus are suitable for people of all ages. Their friendliness extends to other family pets too. They do not like to be left alone which is why owners usually have another pooch to keep them company.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
Originally bred to hunt vermin, Yorkshire terriers have a genetic mix that includes Skye, Dandie Dinmont, now-extinct Scottish terriers, and Maltese. They were small enough to squeeze into tiny crevices of textile mills to pursue rodents and nuisance animals.
The modern-day Yorkies are a far-cry from their working dog beginnings. They’ve become fashionable lap companions that enjoy the life of luxury.
Although they enjoy being lap dogs, they are far from being lazy. They love their exercise and playtime. Highly intelligent and eager to please, Yorkies have the temperament to serve as therapy dogs.
Yorkshire terriers are best recommended for older people or families with older children. Make sure that younger children are supervised when they interact with Yorkies.
6. Pug
Pugs served as lapdogs for Chinese emperors originally. They were bred for this exact purpose so they do not need as much exercise as other dog breeds do. It is believed that these little snugglers can sleep for around 14 hours a day!
Pugs are best recommended for families with children and other pets. When it comes to training, these lapdogs have a streak of stubbornness. It is best to start training and socialisation whilst they are young. As with any dog breed, consistency is the key to successful dog training.
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds are the ultimate lapdogs but they are not lazy couch potatoes as people make them out to be. They were once valued for their hound-like tracking ability. These wiener dogs will need a good walk every day to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.
Dachshunds are best recommended for families with children or elders. They love interacting with people of all ages. Just make sure to teach your children how to correctly interact with dogs.
4. Maltese
The Maltese makes a perfect family companion. This breed is lively, alert and energetic for their size. They require a lot of your time both in grooming and playing. They love being the centre of attention and can be vocal at times.
Maltese are best recommended for first-time dog owners because of their eagerness to please. Because they are a non-shedding and low dander breed, they are suitable for people with allergies.
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3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a playful breed suitable for families with children of any age. They love to play, cuddle, and sleep by their human’s side. They have a big personality and they won’t hesitate to express their feelings to their humans. They are sociable canines that get along with people and other dogs.
As a non-shedding pooch, Bichon Frise is recommended for dog lovers with allergies.
2. Chihuahua
Chihuahua owners admit how their furry buddies always find a way to burrow in blankets. Chihuahuas simply love snuggles and cuddles. They are intelligent, playful, protective and deeply affectionate to their humans.
Chihuahuas are recommended for city living or apartment dwellers. They prefer the comforts of home than the great outdoors.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breeders used to breed smaller spaniels with toy dogs to create the perfect size lapdog. One of the successful breeds is the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. Also known as the ‘comforter spaniel’, the Cavaliers are champion lapdogs that would take every chance they get to curl up on their owner’s lap.
Cavalier King Charles is best recommended for people who are always at home. This breed adapts well to any living arrangements as long as they have company.
